2 August 2023 NCI Day celebrations at Lee-on-the-Solent on 23 July attracted around 100 visitors to our bridge and training room gaining an insight to the work of the National Coastwatch and where we sit in the Search and Rescueteam, at the same time furthering the cause of Coastal Water Safety.

It was our way to say thank you to the residents of Lee-on-the-Solent who have loyally supported us throughout the past year and beyond.

Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS) brought along their trailered lifeboat where the children thoroughly enjoyed climbing on and pretending that they were part of the lifeboat crew; visitors had the added excitement of the GAFIRS lifeboat's spectacular arrival on the beach.  We also had excellent support from the Hill Head Coastguard Rescue Team who brought along their impressive rescue truck (pictured - photo courtesy of David Hutchings).  While not climbing over the rescue boats and being introduced to Man Overboard dummy "Dead Fred", the younger visitors pitted their skills with a throwing the line competition and a What3Words treasure hunt; one team didn't return - we suspect that they are still wandering the streets of Lee-on-the-Solent!

Continuing the nautical flavour of the day, the Sea Shanty group 'Rocks and Groynes' put on a great show for the enjoyment of the public.

Rounding off a successful day, we managed to sign up three prospective watch keepers and raised over £100 for the Charity.